6.5-284 Norma

Professionally Reviewed by:

Nathaniel Boos

Nathaniel Boos

Nathaniel Boos is a lifelong firearms enthusiast and shooter, renowned for his experience as a long-range shooter, ammunition importer/exporter, and firearms manufacturer. With years of hands-on experience, he is a trusted authority in the ammunition and firearms industry.

Credentials:

  • • 2x Team Safari Competitor
  • • KRG Training Level 1, 2, and Force on Force CQB certified
  • • Licensed Texas Conceal Carry Holder
  • • Kranz Firearms Training Group Advanced Carbine Certified

6.5-284 Norma: At a Glance

Key Characteristics
Firearm Type Rifle
Primer Type Large Rifle
Used For Long-range target shooting, Hunting
Case Design Rimless, Bottleneck
Year Introduced 1999

6.5-284 Norma: At a Glance: Pros and Cons

Pros

  • ✔ Excellent long-range accuracy
  • ✔ High ballistic coefficient for better wind resistance
  • ✔ Versatile for both target shooting and hunting
  • ✔ Relatively mild recoil for its performance
  • ✔ Good barrel life compared to similar cartridges

Cons

  • ✘ Less common than other 6.5mm cartridges
  • ✘ Ammunition can be more expensive
  • ✘ Requires a long action rifle
  • ✘ Not as readily available as more popular calibers
  • ✘ Higher powder consumption compared to smaller cartridges

6.5-284 Norma: A Precision Long-Range Cartridge

The 6.5-284 Norma is a high-performance rifle cartridge known for its exceptional accuracy and long-range capabilities. Developed from the .284 Winchester case necked down to 6.5mm, this cartridge has gained popularity among long-range shooters and competitive marksmen. With its flat trajectory, high ballistic coefficient, and moderate recoil, the 6.5-284 Norma has become a favorite for precision shooting disciplines and long-range hunting.

History and Development

The 6.5-284 Norma originated as a wildcat cartridge in the 1960s. It was created by necking down the .284 Winchester case to accept 6.5mm (.264 inch) bullets. The cartridge gained popularity among long-range shooters due to its excellent ballistic properties and accuracy potential.

In 1999, Norma of Sweden standardized the cartridge, leading to its commercial production and wider availability. This standardization helped increase its popularity and led to more rifle manufacturers offering firearms chambered for this round.

The 6.5-284 Norma quickly gained a reputation in long-range shooting competitions, particularly in disciplines like F-Class and 1000-yard benchrest. Its combination of high velocity, flat trajectory, and excellent wind-bucking ability made it a formidable cartridge for precision shooting at extended ranges.

While primarily used in competitive shooting, the 6.5-284 Norma has also found a niche in long-range hunting. Its ability to deliver high energy at extended distances while maintaining manageable recoil has made it popular among hunters pursuing game at longer ranges.

Ballistic Performance

The 6.5-284 Norma typically fires bullets weighing between 120 and 142 grains. These bullets have high ballistic coefficients, contributing to the cartridge's excellent long-range performance. Muzzle velocities range from 2900 to 3200 feet per second, depending on the bullet weight and load.

The cartridge's performance is characterized by a flat trajectory and high retained energy at long distances. It maintains supersonic velocity beyond 1000 yards, making it suitable for extreme long-range shooting. The 6.5mm bullets used in this cartridge are known for their ability to resist wind drift, further enhancing long-range accuracy.

6.5-284 Norma Development Timeline:

Year Event
2010 The 6.5-284 Norma continues to be popular in long-range shooting competitions and gains increased recognition in the hunting community.
2000 Rifle manufacturers begin offering production rifles chambered in 6.5-284 Norma.
1999 Norma of Sweden standardizes and commercially produces the 6.5-284 Norma cartridge.
1990s The cartridge gains popularity in long-range shooting competitions, particularly in F-Class.
1963 The .284 Winchester, the parent case of the 6.5-284 Norma, is introduced by Winchester.
1960s The 6.5-284 is developed as a wildcat cartridge by long-range shooting enthusiasts.

6.5-284 Norma Performance Characteristics

Key performance metrics of the 6.5-284 Norma cartridge:

Characteristic Performance
Bullet Weight 120-142 grains
Most common bullet weights used
Muzzle Velocity 2900-3200 fps
Varies based on bullet weight and load
Effective Range 1000+ yards
Suitable for extreme long-range shooting
Energy at 500 yards 1500-1800 ft-lbs
Varies based on bullet weight and load
Recoil Moderate
Manageable in properly designed rifles

Bullet Weight vs. Muzzle Velocity

This chart shows how bullet weight affects muzzle velocity for common 6.5-284 Norma loads.

Note: Actual velocities may vary based on specific loads, barrel length, and other factors. These values are estimates for comparison purposes.

6.5-284 Norma: Effective Range for Different Applications

This table provides estimated effective ranges for 6.5-284 Norma ammunition in various applications. Ranges are based on typical bullet weights and velocities.

Application Effective Range (yards) Notes
Long-Range Target Shooting 0-1200 Excellent ballistics for long-range precision shooting
Hunting (Medium to Large Game) 0-800 Effective for elk, deer, and similar-sized game
Precision Rifle Competition 0-1000 Popular in Precision Rifle Series (PRS) competitions
Tactical/Law Enforcement 0-1000 Used in some specialized long-range tactical applications

Note: Effective ranges can vary based on factors such as bullet selection, shooter skill, wind conditions, and specific firearm characteristics. The 6.5-284 Norma is known for its excellent long-range performance and accuracy. Always prioritize safety and adhere to local laws and regulations.

Applications for 6.5-284 Norma

The 6.5-284 Norma's exceptional ballistic performance makes it suitable for several specialized applications:

Long-Range Target Shooting
  • Excellent ballistic coefficient for long-range accuracy
  • Low recoil compared to larger long-range cartridges
  • Popular choice for 1000-yard and beyond shooting
Hunting
  • Effective for medium to large game at extended ranges
  • High sectional density provides deep penetration
  • Flat trajectory aids in accurate shot placement
Precision Rifle Competition
  • Favored in Precision Rifle Series (PRS) and similar competitions
  • Combines accuracy, flat trajectory, and moderate recoil
  • Wide range of match-grade ammunition available
Tactical/Law Enforcement
  • Used in some specialized long-range tactical roles
  • Offers good performance in windy conditions
  • Effective for precision shots at extended ranges

6.5-284 Norma Caliber Comparisons

The 6.5-284 Norma is a versatile long-range cartridge known for its accuracy and ballistic performance. Let's compare it to similar cartridges to understand its capabilities:

6.5-284 Norma vs. .260 Remington ▼

6.5-284 Norma vs. 6.5 Creedmoor ▼

6.5-284 Norma vs. .300 Winchester Magnum ▼

Recoil Energy Comparison

Compare the estimated recoil energy of 6.5-284 Norma with other popular rifle cartridges. (Based on a 9 lb rifle)

Note: Recoil energy can vary based on specific loads, firearm weight, and other factors. These values are estimates for comparison purposes.

Ballistic Trajectory Comparison

This chart compares the ballistic trajectory (bullet drop) of 6.5-284 Norma with other popular rifle cartridges over distance.

Note: Trajectories are calculated for a 200-yard zero. Actual results may vary based on specific loads, atmospheric conditions, and firearm characteristics.

Wind Drift Comparison

This chart compares the wind drift of 6.5-284 Norma with other popular rifle cartridges in a 10 mph crosswind.

Note: Wind drift is calculated for a 10 mph full-value crosswind. Actual results may vary based on specific loads, atmospheric conditions, and firearm characteristics.

Energy Retention Comparison

This chart compares the energy retention of 6.5-284 Norma with other popular rifle cartridges over distance.

Note: Energy values are calculated based on typical bullet weights and velocities for each cartridge. Actual results may vary based on specific loads and environmental conditions.

Sectional Density Comparison for 6.5-284 Norma

The 6.5-284 Norma is a high-performance cartridge known for its excellent ballistic coefficients and sectional densities, making it popular for long-range shooting and hunting.

Cartridge Bullet Weight (gr) Sectional Density
6.5-284 Norma 120 0.246
6.5-284 Norma 140 0.287
6.5-284 Norma 142 0.291
6.5-284 Norma 156 0.320
6.5-284 Norma 160 0.328

Note: The 6.5-284 Norma offers excellent sectional densities across various bullet weights, contributing to its reputation for superior long-range performance and penetration. The cartridge's high sectional densities, combined with its inherent accuracy and flat trajectory, make it a favorite among competitive shooters and long-range hunters.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: What is the 6.5-284 Norma cartridge?

A: The 6.5-284 Norma is a wildcat cartridge based on the .284 Winchester case necked down to 6.5mm. It was developed for long-range target shooting and has gained popularity among precision shooters and hunters.

Q: What are the ballistic characteristics of the 6.5-284 Norma?

A: The 6.5-284 Norma typically fires a 140-grain bullet at velocities around 2900-3000 fps from a 26-inch barrel. It offers excellent long-range performance with high ballistic coefficients and relatively low recoil for its power level.

Q: How does the 6.5-284 Norma compare to other 6.5mm cartridges?

A: The 6.5-284 Norma offers higher velocities and flatter trajectories than the 6.5 Creedmoor, while being less overbored and easier on barrels than the 6.5-300 Weatherby Magnum. It strikes a balance between performance and barrel life that many shooters find appealing.

Q: Is the 6.5-284 Norma suitable for hunting?

A: Yes, the 6.5-284 Norma is an excellent choice for hunting medium to large game. Its high ballistic coefficient bullets retain energy well at long ranges, making it effective for deer, elk, and similar-sized game out to extended distances.

Q: What is the typical barrel life of a 6.5-284 Norma?

A: The typical barrel life of a 6.5-284 Norma is around 1,500 to 2,000 rounds when used for precision shooting. This can vary depending on factors such as load development, firing schedule, and individual barrel characteristics.

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